kilimanjaro Umbwe route

TREKKING

Tour Overview

ABOUT THE TREK

The 6-day Kilimanjaro climb via the Umbwe Route is an exhilarating and challenging adventure that promises breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment. Beginning at Umbwe Gate, the journey takes climbers through dense rainforests and steep ridges, offering glimpses of the surrounding landscapes. As the ascent continues, the moorland zone welcomes trekkers, leading to the awe-inspiring Barranco Wall. Each day presents unique challenges, from scrambling up the Barranco Wall to navigating rocky terrain en route to Barafu Camp, the base camp for the summit attempt. The highlight of the expedition is the midnight push to the summit, Uhuru Peak, via the scree slope, Stella Point, and finally, the highest point on Kilimanjaro. After savoring the triumphant moment at the peak, the descent begins, ending the adventure at Mweka Gate with unforgettable memories and a well-deserved sense of accomplishment.

SAFARI ITINERARY

Elevation at the start: Umbwe Gate (1,600 meters/5,249 feet)

Elevation at the end: Umbwe Cave Camp (2,850 meters/9,350 feet)

Trekking time: Approximately 4-6 hours

The journey starts at Umbwe Gate, and the trail is steep and demanding. You'll hike through the dense rainforest of the lower slopes. The day ends at Umbwe Cave Camp for the first night's stay

Elevation at the end: Barranco Camp (3,950 meters/12,959 feet)

Trekking time: Approximately 6-8 hours

The trail continues through the forest until it reaches the moorland zone. As you ascend, you'll get some breathtaking views of the surrounding areas. The day's hike ends at Barranco Camp, situated in a beautiful valley.

Elevation at the end: Karanga Camp (3,995 meters/13,106 feet)

Trekking time: Approximately 4-5 hours

This day involves tackling the Barranco Wall, a steep ridge that requires some scrambling. It's a challenging but exciting section of the climb. After reaching the top of the wall, the trail descends into the Karanga Valley, where you'll spend the night at Karanga Camp.

Elevation at the end: Barafu Camp (4,673 meters/15,331 feet)

Trekking time: Approximately 4-5 hours

The path continues through rocky and rugged terrain as you make your way to Barafu Camp, the base camp for the summit attempt. You'll need to rest early in preparation for the summit push the next night.

Elevation at the summit: Uhuru Peak (5,895 meters/19,341 feet)

Elevation at the end: Mweka Camp (3,100 meters/10,170 feet)

Trekking time: Approximately 12-16 hours (including the summit attempt)

The summit attempt begins at midnight. The trail takes you through the challenging and steep scree slope to Stella Point and then further to Uhuru Peak, the highest point on Kilimanjaro. After celebrating your achievement, you'll descend to Mweka Camp for the night.

Elevation at the end: Mweka Gate (1,640 meters/5,380 feet)

Trekking time: Approximately 3-4 hours

The final descent through the rainforest will take you to Mweka Gate, where you'll receive your summit certificates and say goodbye to the mountain.

SAFARI PRICING

  1. Park fees: This includes the entrance fees to Kilimanjaro National Park, camping or hut fees, and conservation fees.
  2. Professional guides and porters: The package typically includes experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the mountain and its routes. Porters are also provided to carry the bulk of your gear and camping equipment.
  3. Meals: Most packages include all meals during the climb, from breakfast, lunch, and dinner to snacks. The food is often prepared by the trekking company and is designed to provide the necessary energy for the ascent.
  4. Camping equipment or huts: Depending on the route you choose, the package may include camping equipment like tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping mats. For the Marangu Route, accommodation is in huts with basic amenities.
  5. Safety equipment: Safety gear such as first aid kits, oxygen cylinders, and communication equipment may be included for emergencies.
  6. Transfers: Some packages include airport transfers and transportation to and from the Kilimanjaro starting point (e.g., Machame Gate or Marangu Gate).
  1. International flights: The package usually does not include international airfare to Tanzania.

  2. Visa fees: You’ll need to obtain a Tanzanian visa, and this cost is typically not included in the package.

  3. Personal gear: Climbers are responsible for bringing their personal gear, such as clothing, hiking boots, daypacks, and other essentials.

  4. Travel insurance: It’s highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and trip cancellations. This is usually not included in the package.

  5. Tips: While not mandatory, it’s customary to tip the guides, porters, and other staff for their hard work and support.

  6. Additional accommodation: Accommodation before and after the climb is often not included in the package. You’ll need to arrange and pay for these separately.

  7. Personal expenses: Any expenses for souvenirs, extra snacks or drinks, and other personal items are not included.

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Beyond summiting, it's a transformative journey, fostering self-reflection, and changing lives positively.

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Daily health checks by Wilderness First Responder-trained guides are conducted on the mountain.

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Our in-house rental store offers personally vetted and sourced high-quality mountain gear for your convenience.

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